There are only four weeks of classes before finals. Start studying early with these tips from HC Chatham team members.
Make Study Guides
“Start compiling a study guide now while you still have time,” says News/Lifestyle Writer Shannon Ward. “If you spend just a few minutes every night working on a study guide, it will be easier to memorize the content as finals edge closer. That way, you won’t be cramming at the last minute!” Having trouble synthesizing the content of the class? “Go back into your class’ syllabus to review the criterion you will be graded on,” suggests Photographer Rosemary Davies.
Study Every Night
Studying every day prevents an information overload the night before the exams. Rosemary says that devoting small chunks of time to each subject will help you most. “Don’t pour hours into one. Split up the hours across your classes.” More tempted to watch Parks and Rec on Netflix than pick up a Political Science textbook? “A daily reminder will keep you on track,” says Rosemary. “You can even program this into your phone.”
Take Notes and Use Them
Business Team Member Casey Deer and Writer Paige Owens both suggest making good use of your notes. Functioning as an outline of each lecture, notes often give you a good indication of what’s important to the professor (and, as a result, what’s likely to show up on an exam).
Sleep
“My number one tip is not to cram right before finals,” stresses Rosemary. “While this may seem like a lucrative option at the last minute, it will probably leave you restless and forgetful.” No one wants to crash on the day of a final; keeping a reasonably consistent sleep schedule in these last weeks of the semester will help you sustain your energy until the last paper is turned in.